Another Simple Favor: A Disappointing Return to the Franchise
Spoilers Ahead for "Another Simple Favor" – the sequel you didn’t know you didn’t need.
A Questionable Sequel
“Another Simple Favor” attempts to capitalize on the sparse success of its predecessor, “A Simple Favor,” but unfortunately, it falls victim to cliché plots and lackluster performances. Originally based on Darcey Bell’s novel, the first film thrived on the unexpected chemistry between Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick paired with a twisty narrative. This time, however, the spark seems to have fizzled.
Reintroducing Old Friends
To jog your memory: the first film showcased Kendrick as Stephanie Smothers, an overly ambitious suburban mom whose high standards and DIY ethos make her the laughingstock among her peers. Her unexpected bond with Lively’s glamorous yet enigmatic Emily Nelson provided the backbone of the story. This unexpected duo captivated viewers with their contrasting lives—one serving up Pinterest-perfect lunches while the other knocked back martinis in designer outfits.
Uneasy Friendships
Their alliance is wrapped in darkness, as both women harbor secrets that give rise to a strangely captivating friendship. While Stephanie grapples with her own scandalous past, including a cringe-worthy affair after her father’s funeral, the audacious Emily hides far worse. Their bond is tested when Emily mysteriously disappears, sending Stephanie spiraling into a hunt for the truth.
The Plot Thickens
In “Another Simple Favor,” we find ourselves seven years later, with Stephanie now a viral sensation through her vlog, “A Pinch of Murder.” The narrative kickstarts when Emily, previously imprisoned, suddenly re-enters her life, not just as a free woman but as a bride-to-be to a wealthy Italian with suspected mafia ties.
The Plot Takes Flight… and Crashes
Set against the gorgeous backdrop of Capri, the story spirals deeper into chaos as old favorites return and new twists emerge. The stakes rise dramatically, but so do the levels of absurdity. The film clangs together plot points involving a kidnapping, a murder, and a subplot about fighting mobsters—all of which could have used a touch more originality.
Lackluster Performances
Blake Lively’s portrayal of Emily can’t quite shake the feeling of being a one-dimensional caricature, making her grand entrances feel more forced than fabulous. Her character sways between a sense of danger and sheer triviality. On the other hand, Kendrick shines through her radiant awkwardness, successfully propelling the film at times, but even her performance can’t compensate for the film’s overall shortcomings.
The Problem of Predictability
One of the movie’s most glaring flaws is its predictable trajectory. Key moments, designed to shock, fail to land with the force needed to raise the stakes. Sean’s abrupt death, for example, seems intended to stir the plot but instead serves as an uninspiring punctuation mark in a languid narrative.
Missed Opportunities
Additionally, the film struggles with its pacing and misfired humor. The subplot involving the FBI, along with a disjointed comedic rescue scene involving a hotel cleaning lady, feels forced and out of place. There’s an overarching sense that the narrative is relying too heavily on shock value without layering in emotional depth.
A Clumsy Execution of Sensitive Themes
Moreover, sensitive themes make a troubling return, particularly with the shocking twist involving incest in the relationship between Emily and her sister. Joking about such complex issues diminishes their impact and resonates poorly in today’s climate.
The Fractured Relationship
Despite all the chaos, Stephanie and Emily’s toxic relationship is at the core of the story. Their dynamic, fraught with tension, ultimately leads to an unsatisfying conclusion where both women seem caught in a codependent cycle. The film ends on a note of ambiguity that raises questions but fails to provide any satisfying answers.
The Final Verdict
While Kendrick brings her undeniable charm to the table, “Another Simple Favor” pales in comparison to its predecessor and struggles to find its footing in a sea of predictable plot twists and character inconsistencies. The film is a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the complexities of female friendship wrapped in intrigue and mystery.
Is This the End of the Line?
As whispers of a potential third installment creep into the conversation, one can only hope that this franchise doesn’t overstay its welcome. Two was two too many, and unless there’s a significant overhaul behind the scenes, it might be best to leave this convoluted tale behind.
Streaming now on Prime Video, “Another Simple Favor” ultimately serves as a reminder that some stories are better left at just one simple favor.
